Shalimar Bagh is a breathtaking Mughal garden located on the right bank of the Dal Lake. The garden, built in the 17th century, has four terraces with a canal running through them. The gardens have numerous fountains, pools, and flowerbeds, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely picnic with your family.
Gulmarg, also known as the "Meadow of Flowers," is a paradise for nature lovers. The picturesque town is home to some of the world's highest peaks, including the famous Mount Apharwat. In addition to skiing and snowboarding during winters, the town offers several outdoor recreational activities like golfing, trekking, and horse riding the rest of the year.
Sonamarg, located in the Ganderbal district, is a scenic valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains and meandering glaciers. Admire the views of the Thajiwas glacier, or go for a pony ride through the colorful meadows. The Satsar Lakes trek is perfect for adventurous families.
Pari Mahal, also known as the "House of Fairies," is a historical garden located above the Chashme Shahi gardens. Pari Mahal dates back to the reign of the Mughals, and the garden has seven terraces, a water channel, and a beautiful view of the Dal Lake, making it a perfect spot for a family outing.
The Mughal gardens, located along the banks of the Dal lake, feature several gardens built by Mughal emperors in the 16th and 17th centuries. Visit the Nishat Bagh garden, which is the most extensive and has several fountains and cascades, or admire the stunning sunset view from the Shalimar Bagh.
The Floating Vegetable Market is a unique experience where boats carrying fresh produce, flowers, and spices converge on the Dal Lake every morning. Experience a slice of authentic Kashmiri life by taking a tour of the market and having breakfast of local specialties.
To travel around Kashmir, private taxis would be the most convenient option for families. Taxis can be booked for the entire day or for specific sightseeing purposes. The cost of hiring a taxi ranges from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per day, depending on the distance and the duration of the trip. Public transport is less frequent outside the main cities, and taxis or private cars are recommended.
The best way to reach Srinagar is by air. The Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is the main airport and is located about 14 km from the city center. Taxis and buses are readily available from the airport to the city center.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Dachigam National Park, which is known for its exotic wildlife and is just 22 km away from Srinagar. If you have limited time, consider skipping the Mughal Gardens and exploring Srinagar city instead. Be aware of the local weather conditions before planning outdoor activities.
The Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is the main airport in Kashmir, and is located in the city of Srinagar. The airport is well connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, among others. The airport operates over 50 domestic flights per week, and some international flights from Dubai and Sharjah also operate seasonally. The airport is located approximately 14 km from Srinagar city center.